By Fatma Younis
Kimi Antonelli has been crowned 2026 Formula 1 world champion, becoming the most surprising title winner in 17 years. The Italian driver clinched the championship in Mexico City, defying pre-season predictions that heavily favored his Mercedes teammate George Russell.
Pre-season expectations overturned
Before the season, experts and bookmakers largely dismissed Antonelli's title chances. Sky Sports and BBC pundits, as well as many journalists, predicted Russell would dominate in the superior Mercedes car. Antonelli was considered as low as seventh favorite for the championship in February testing.
Russell's early dominance fades
Russell began the season strongly, taking pole and victory at the Australian Grand Prix, while Antonelli crashed in practice but recovered to finish second. Russell's 2025 season had also suggested he was the team's clear number one driver, having won two races in inferior machinery and finishing fourth overall.
Antonelli's remarkable turnaround
However, Antonelli's form transformed dramatically. He won nine grands prix compared to Russell's three, displaying composure and maturity beyond his 20 years. The points swing was incomprehensible, with Antonelli securing the title with five rounds remaining.
Historical context
Antonelli's triumph marks the first time since Nico Rosberg's 2016 victory over Lewis Hamilton that a designated number two driver has won the championship. The last comparable surprise was Jenson Button's 2009 title for Brawn GP. Since Button's win, champions have been Sebastian Vettel, Lewis Hamilton, Rosberg, Max Verstappen, and Lando Norris in 2025.
